Research modeling biology as interacting systems. Covers tumor-response prediction, engineered bacteria, living-matter physics, and behavior in model organisms.
A team of UCSB researchers has identified changes in cellular metabolism as the triggering factor for Type 2 diabetes. By studying the four types of components that make up cells, they found a 'tipping point' where metabolic threshold is crossed, leading to beta cell failure and insulin regulation issues.
Scientists have developed two novel model systems for human corneal endothelium, enabling reliable study of HCEnC cells in health and disease. The new model systems, HCENC-21 and HCEnC-21T, mimic the critical characteristics and functionalities of the tissue in the eye.
Researchers estimate that 80,000 never events occurred in American hospitals between 1990 and 2010, including leaving foreign objects inside patients. The study highlights the need for better patient safety procedures and public reporting of mistakes to prevent these errors from happening.
Socrates Analytics provides a cloud-based software program that collects, standardizes, analyzes, and reports on disparate hospital billing, administrative, and operating room data. This enables hospitals to interpret complex administrative data, view trends, outliers, and variability in care processes, ultimately improving efficiency ...
The sixth SystemsX.ch tender approved 15 projects with CHF 60 million available, focusing on biological processes and medical applications. Switzerland reiterates its pioneering role in systems biology through collaborations between researchers from various institutions and companies.
A study found that adding a personal digital assistant and telephone coaching to a standard weight loss program significantly enhanced short-term weight loss outcomes. Participants in the intervention group lost an average of 3.9 kg more than those in the control group at each weigh-in, with notable improvements at three and six months.
A study of 62 attending physicians found that shorter inpatient rotations did not increase unplanned patient revisits but led to lower scores on evaluations by trainees and medical students. The shorter rotation also resulted in reduced reports of burnout severity and emotional exhaustion among attending physicians.
A series of studies by Intermountain Healthcare's Oncology Clinical Program shows that improving care across a large hospital system is possible through standardized care. Key findings include reduced mastectomies and lymph node removals in breast cancer patients, indicating a more consistent approach to treatment.
A study by Oregon State University researchers found that young surgical residents made major mistakes nearly half the time during simulated gall bladder removals due to distractions in the operating room. The analysis showed that young surgeons, particularly those in the afternoon, struggled with interruptions and conversations.
A new framework is proposed to guide career direction in health systems improvement, a term encompassing management, research, and public policy. The authors suggest that trainees consider reflecting on their preferences, identifying core areas of focus, and exploring additional formal training options.
A study of 250,000 women found that repeated CT and nuclear imaging increased breast cancer risk, especially in younger patients. The risk was highest among young women who received multiple scans, with estimates suggesting a 20% increase in 10-year breast cancer risk.
Soft Robotics is a peer-reviewed journal dedicated to the science and engineering of soft materials in mobile machines. The journal covers topics such as device development, flexible electronics, and control and simulation of highly deformable structures.
A novel hybrid printer combines two low-cost fabrication techniques to create cartilage constructs with improved mechanical stability. The printer uses a combination of synthetic and natural materials, allowing for the growth of cells and development of structures typical of elastic cartilage.
A study found that patients with online access to their medical records and secure email communication with clinicians had significantly increased use of clinical services, including office visits and telephone encounters. This contradicts the assumption that online access would substitute for traditional health care services.
A study of postdischarge complications after general surgery procedures found that 16.7% of patients experienced a complication, with the majority occurring within 30 days of discharge. Proctectomy, enteric fistula repair, and pancreatic procedures had the highest postdischarge complication rates.
Researchers at the University of Akron have developed a biocompatible polymer structure that can fight infection, filter water, and perform various healing functions. The system can be fabricated and specialized to meet specific needs, offering versatility and convenience.
A recent survey found that 69% of US primary care physicians use electronic medical records, but still face challenges with communication and teamwork. The majority of doctors support a fundamental health system change to address these issues, while also expressing frustration with insurance restrictions and patient affordability.
UT Southwestern Medical Center is one of only two academic medical centers in the US to receive a Patient Voice Award and a Summit Award for outstanding patient satisfaction scores. The hospital achieved high levels of excellence in patient care, with recognition for its communication, responsiveness, and pain management.
A new international collaboration sheds light on the timing mechanism of vertebrae formation in vertebrate embryos, revealing the crucial role of molecular oscillators. The study provides real-time visual evidence of how these 'clocks' operate at the level of individual cells.
Researchers studied over 1,600 women for 10 years and found no correlation between dietary phytoestrogens or fiber intake and the onset of menopausal symptoms. Despite previous hypotheses that a diet high in phytoestrogens would reduce symptoms, the study suggests that finding a clinically significant effect would be unlikely.
Researchers at The Feinstein Institute for Medical Research have discovered that extract from mung bean can reduce the release of HMGB1, thereby increasing survival rates in mice. This finding has promise for the treatment of sepsis in humans.
Physicians are facing the challenge of providing early treatment for fungal meningitis as cases continue to rise. The University of Michigan Health System physician authors recommend a high dose of voriconazole, but note the risk of visual disturbances, confusion, and liver test abnormalities. To avoid these effects, reducing the drug'...
The US Preventive Services Task Force recommends against the use of estrogen and progestin for chronic disease prevention in postmenopausal women. Hormone replacement therapies may reduce fracture risk but increase risk for stroke, thromboembolic events, and urinary incontinence. The recommendations aim to balance benefits with risks.
Kaiser Permanente Research Affiliates has received a national designation as an Evidence-based Practice Center. The new collaboration will conduct comprehensive evidence reviews for the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force, focusing on cancer, obesity, diabetes, and other health conditions.
The study analyzed videos of 227 falls from 130 individuals, finding incorrect weight shifting as the most frequent cause. The researchers identified common hazards, such as foot getting caught on tables or chairs, that require attention to prevent future falls.
Researchers found that the computerized checklist dramatically reduced venous thromboembolisms, with a nearly 90% drop in deep vein thrombosis rates. The system improved prophylaxis orders among patients without contraindications to low-dose blood thinners.
State physician health programs help doctors with substance abuse problems, but their system is inconsistent and prone to potential conflicts of interest. The authors recommend increased oversight and national standards to address these concerns.
The UCI Center for Complex Biological Systems has been awarded $11.5 million in continued funding, enabling researchers to explore dynamic interactions underlying complex functions. This award reinforces the center's interdisciplinary approach and its contributions to advancing our understanding of biological systems.
Scientists found that clot-busting enzyme t-PA also removes necrotic cells from the body. The process involves a blood clot-like structure, allowing for efficient removal without damage to the body.
Researchers from Northwestern University and others demonstrate 'transient electronics' that dissolve in a well-controlled manner. These biocompatible devices could be used for medical implants, environmental monitors, or military applications, offering advantages over conventional electronics.
A team of researchers at Kansas State University is working on a project to develop improved security warning messages that prompt users to make gut decisions about online safety. They aim to minimize traditional text warnings and icons, instead using visual images to convey the importance and danger level of certain choices.
Researchers at Aarhus University have determined the atomic structures of MASP-2 and its substrate C4, shedding light on the complement system's activation process. The findings may lead to more intelligent ways of developing drugs that attenuate undesired activation of the complement system.
Researchers investigated six models for community health center access to subspecialty care, finding that integrated systems offer the best comprehensive access. Community health centers can hire subspecialists or partner with hospitals to provide better care.
A research team found that infants' cortisol levels rise after waking up, with shorter pregnancies linked to lower cortisol rises. This new method could lead to diagnosing illnesses in hormone-producing organs and understanding the stress system's development in humans.
The ACCESS-EU study found significant clinical improvements in patients treated with MitraClip therapy, including reduced death rates, mitral regurgitation, and need for surgery. The study's results confirmed the effectiveness of the device in a real-world setting.
A new study links nasal irrigation with contaminated tap water to rare disease Naegleria fowleri infections. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reports two fatal cases in Louisiana where the organism was found in home water systems, highlighting the importance of using safely treated water for sinus irrigation.
A study published in the Journal of the National Cancer Institute found that LPA1 inhibition induces metastatic dormancy in mouse models of breast cancer. The inhibitor, Debio-0719, suppresses metastases without affecting primary tumor size.
An international research team used supercomputers to analyze millions of data points and identified a complex pattern of genetic and environmental risk factors influencing congenital heart development. The findings could lead to more efficient diagnosis and treatment of the condition.
Researchers at UC San Diego developed a method to model an organism's metabolism and gene expression simultaneously. The technology enables detailed calculations of the total cost of synthesizing chemicals, including biofuels, by accounting for material and energy requirements.
The Office of Naval Research's PROMIS tool allows command staff to submit human research protocols and track studies. The system provides a centralized database for the nation's first Defense Department-wide tracking of human subject studies.
Healthcare organizations discuss the benefits of Accountable Care Organizations (ACOs) in reducing healthcare costs while improving quality. However, they also highlight concerns and design flaws in the current ACO models, such as lack of beneficiary engagement and administrative complexity.
A Caltech-led team has successfully created a swimming 'jellyfish' using tissue-engineered silicone and muscle cells, which mimics the fluid dynamics of a real jellyfish. The breakthrough demonstrates that function-driven design can outperform natural evolution in engineering complex systems.
A new study found that global budgets for healthcare can slow the growth of medical spending while improving quality of care. The Blue Cross Blue Shield Alternative Quality Contract program in Massachusetts achieved significant savings and quality improvements, with provider groups seeing reductions of up to 9.9% in medical spending.
The YES Board reduces time required to translate data, enabling physicians to forecast patient needs and track progress. The system provides overall situational awareness, helping detect at-risk patients and forecasting patient needs.
Researchers have developed a simple and cost-effective imaging device for breast tumor detection using a flexible wearable antenna system. The system shows promise of detecting breast cancer earlier than other methods by analyzing microwave signals from skin contact, reducing signal loss compared to traditional designs.
Researchers found that the immune response to a heart attack accelerates underlying atherosclerosis, leading to increased inflammation in atherosclerotic plaques. This study suggests a new therapeutic strategy for preventing heart attacks and strokes by targeting the immune system's role in exacerbating atherosclerosis.
A comprehensive review of 142 clinical trials found that strategies targeting patients and the healthcare system are effective in improving diabetes outcomes. Programs aimed at physicians were only successful for diabetics with poor health control, while patient-targeted interventions showed promise regardless of HbA1c levels.
The Johns Hopkins-developed program provides acute hospital-level care within a patient's home, resulting in lower costs and equal or better outcomes compared to traditional hospital inpatients. The study found Hospital at Home patients had slightly lower hospital readmission and mortality rates and higher satisfaction scores.
Researchers have developed engineered microvessels that can grow small human blood vessels in a 3-D structure, allowing for the study of disease progression and development of efficient therapies. The system shows promise in studying various diseases, including cancer, malaria, and clotting disorders.
A national survey found that systems treating severe heart attacks are expanding nationwide, with over 580 community-based STEMI systems registered in Mission: Lifeline. The survey also identified common barriers to implementing these systems, including competition among hospitals and finances.
A new device developed by researchers in Israel can reveal vital medical information from a single drop of blood in real-time. Using spectrally encoded confocal microscopy, the device creates high-resolution images of individual blood cells flowing through veins without the need for fluorescent dyes.
Researchers have revised the glioblastoma classification system to accommodate treatment advances and molecular markers, aiming to better identify patients requiring aggressive therapy. The new system incorporates clinical variables, molecular biomarkers, and tumor characteristics to provide a more relevant prognosis.
A new article by UCSF researchers outlines a 10-year plan to fight depression, emphasizing the need for routine access to prevention interventions. The authors suggest identifying high-risk individuals and reducing new cases of depression by half.
The new Bio4D software program will manage biological repositories for genetic and genomic research, including blood, DNA, and tissue samples. It aims to accelerate discovery in the laboratory and help translate information to oncologists working with clinical patients.
A study of nearly 11,000 total knee replacements across five top health systems revealed significant variations in length of stay, operating room time, and in-hospital complications. The data showed that surgeons with higher volumes tend to have shorter procedures, while older and sicker patients had longer hospital stays.
A study of nearly 20,000 cases of routine appendicitis at 289 hospitals and medical centers in California found significant discrepancies in hospital charges, ranging from $1,529 to $183,000. The median charge was $33,611, with county hospital charges being 37% lower than nonprofit hospital charges.
Researchers at IU School of Medicine and Regenstrief Institute created an automated system called CHICA to streamline pediatric care. CHICA uses risk factor data to alert physicians to potential issues, allowing them to focus on individual children's needs.
Researchers developed a novel system for 3D reconstruction and examination of tissues at microscopic resolution, enhancing the study of normal and disease processes. The new approach uses conventional histopathological methods and can be used by technical or medical staff without input from computing specialists.
A proactive solution could help prevent injuries by restricting driving privileges under favourable conditions. Exemptions would be granted for certified healthy seniors, shifting the onus from others to seek exemptions.
Researchers at the University of Alberta discovered that some breast cancer tumors with weak 'survival' systems responded better to taxane chemotherapy than those with strong survival systems. This finding could lead to new strategies for identifying patients who may not respond to this common treatment.